Government Releases Plan to Eliminate Sugar Sweetened Beverage Tax on July 1, 2025

Following weeks of consultation with the Newfoundland and Labrador Premier’s Office and Department of Finance, Retail Council of Canada (RCC) is pleased to report that Newfoundland and Labrador’s Sugar Sweetened Beverage Tax (SSBT) will be eliminated on July 1, 2025. The provincial government has amended its Revenue Administration Regulations to allow this change to occur quickly.  Once the House of Assembly reconvenes, additional amendments to the Revenue Administration Act will also be introduced to repeal the legislative references to the SSBT.  Of note to RCC members: The government will offer retailers the opportunity to apply for a refund of any SSBT paid on beverages purchased before yet sold after July 1^st. For more details, please see press release and government backgrounder.